“But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.”
'But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God' - this is perhaps the most important theological statement in Acts regarding discernment. Gamaliel articulates the principle that what is 'from God' (ex theou) is unstoppable: 'you will not be able to stop them' (ou dynasthe katalusai autous). The warning 'you will find yourselves fighting against God' (anthestēsesthe tē theō) echoes the Old Testament language of resisting divine purpose (cf. Proverbs 21:30). Gamaliel unknowingly speaks truth prophecy.
Church Fathers on Acts 5:39
For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody: to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to naught. Acts 5:36 By examples he teaches them prudence; and, by way of encouragement, mentions last the man who seduced the greatest number. Now before he gives the examples, he says, Take heed to yourselves; but when he has cited them, then he declares his opinion,…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS
Publish a reflection on this verse
No reflections on this verse yet. Be the first to write one!